TAYLOR&EMMET SUPPORTS DRIVE TO STOP TEENAGE ABUSE

Family experts at leading Sheffield solicitors, Taylor&Emmet LLP, are welcoming the launch of government adverts focusing on domestic abuse among teenagers.

Taylor&Emmet’s Rachel Read-Hill said: “We are hoping the campaign will open up a dialogue about domestic abuse and stop teenagers demonstrating inappropriate behaviour.”

The firm, which has one of the largest family departments in the region and a team dedicated to dealing with domestic abuse, is highlighting the raft of preventative measures available to teenagers through the legal aid system. These include warning letters and injunctions that can be put into place without the knowledge of parents or the police, who do not always have to become involved.

Matrimonial specialist, Rachel, added: “Often teenagers in abusive relationships do not get the help they desperately need, unless a child is involved and social services act on their behalf. In many cases, this is because they fear the intervention of parents or the police, or they have no income of their own and do not realise legal aid is available.

“In our experience, teenage domestic abuse is a much bigger issue than is currently documented, as many girls do not realise they are victims. We hope the government’s adverts will raise general awareness of the subject, help teenagers define what amounts to unacceptable behaviour and encourage them to seek legal support.”

A solicitor can provide confidential advice to a victim of domestic abuse who is more than 18 years old without parental consent. This may also be the case for 16 and 17 year-olds, if the professional deems the individual fit to act in her own right. Anyone under the age of 16 needs a ‘litigation friend’ who is a trusted adult, but this does not have to be a parent.

Taylor&Emmet operates a helpline – 0114 218 4040 – dedicated to providing victims of domestic abuse with quick and accessible legal advice. The firm also offers free initial appointments at its Arundel Gate headquarters, to help local people gain essential support in emergency situations.

For further information about the legal protection available to victims of domestic abuse, contact Taylor&Emmet on (0114) 218 4000